Helping cancer survivors quit smoking and reduce distress through telehealth

Reducing distress and tobacco smoking in cancer survivors: a TDCS telehealth study

NIH-funded research Wake Forest University Health Sciences · NIH-10680370

This study is testing a new way to help cancer survivors quit smoking and feel better by using a special brain stimulation treatment they can do at home with support from doctors online.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Winston-Salem, United States)
Project IDNIH-10680370 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new approach to help cancer survivors quit smoking and manage psychological distress using a technique called remotely supervised transcranial direct current stimulation (RS-tDCS). Participants will receive this brain stimulation treatment at home, monitored by clinicians through telehealth visits. The study aims to evaluate the feasibility of this method and its effects on reducing distress and smoking behavior among cancer survivors. By focusing on the unique challenges faced by this population, the research seeks to provide a tailored intervention that can be easily accessed and integrated into their care.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer survivors who smoke and experience psychological distress related to their diagnosis.

Not a fit: Patients who do not smoke or those who are not cancer survivors may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide cancer survivors with an effective tool to quit smoking and improve their mental health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using brain stimulation techniques for addiction treatment, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Winston-Salem, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.